Vehicle Segment:
Compact Performance Sedan
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Subaru Impreza WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus SVT
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair information, saving owners significant costs compared to dealership service.
Vehicle Selling Points:
Affordable performance, turbocharged engine, sporty handling, distinctive styling for its era.
Engine:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Engine Performance, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings, Timing Belt Service Procedures
Brakes:
Brakes, Brake Servicing Procedures
Chassis:
Front End and Alignment Procedures and Specifications, Suspension, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Codes, Vacuum Diagrams
HVAC:
Air Conditioning Service and Capacities
Fuel System:
Fuel pump and sender unit service, fuel injector diagnosis and replacement, fuel rail and pressure regulator service.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, muffler, and exhaust manifold service. Turbocharger exhaust housing and downpipe replacement.
Steering System:
Power steering pump and rack and pinion service, tie rod end replacement.
Lighting System:
Headlamp, taillamp, and interior lighting service. Bulb replacement and circuit diagnostics.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and component replacement procedures.
Maintenance:
Factory Maintenance Schedules and Charts
Diagnostics:
Trouble Codes, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts
Repair:
Engine Rebuilding, Brake Servicing, Transmission Removal/Installation, U-Joint/CV-Joint Service, General Repair Procedures
Engine Component Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, oil pump and pan service.
Suspension Component Replacement:
Strut replacement, shock absorber replacement, control arm and ball joint service, wheel bearing replacement.
Cooling System:
Radiator and fan replacement, thermostat service, heater core diagnosis and replacement.
Body Panel Replacement:
Fender, hood, bumper, door, and trunk lid replacement and alignment.
Depth:
Full Mechanical and Electrical Repair, Diagnostics, and Maintenance
Torque Specifications:
Complete torque specifications for all major fasteners and components are provided.
Illustrations And Diagrams:
Hundreds of illustrations and detailed diagrams for visual guidance.
Engine Code:
4G63T (Mitsubishi Design)
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-Valve, Turbocharged
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2351 cc)
Horsepower Est:
230 hp @ 5500 RPM
Torque Est:
255 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Turbocharger Details:
Mitsubishi TD04-13G Turbocharger with Intercooler
Oil Change Interval Est:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (depending on driving conditions and oil type)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval Est:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years
Engine Oil Type Est:
5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or higher)
Coolant Type Est:
Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant
Brake Fluid Type Est:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Type Est:
MS-9224 Manual Transmission Fluid
Common Problems:
Turbocharger seal leaks, clutch wear, fuel injector issues, crank position sensor failures, spark plug blow-out (requiring Heli-Coil or Time-Sert repair).
Performance Tuning Risks:
Over-boosting without proper ECU tuning can lead to engine damage. The 4G63T is robust but has limits.
Parent Company:
DaimlerChrysler (at the time of production)
Origin Of Platform:
Based on the Dodge Neon platform, heavily modified for performance by SRT (Street & Racing Technology).
Srt Development:
SRT engineers significantly upgraded the engine, suspension, brakes, and aerodynamics from the standard Neon.
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Production Volume Est:
Approximately 15,000 units for the 2003-2005 model years combined.
